So You Wanna Get Started in the Points Game?

Spending to earn credit card reward points is a fun hobby, but it's not for all.  The game has changed considerably since I started over 5 years ago.  Earning the points requires more effort today and sometimes creativity.  There are not many shortcuts so right there those thinking of trying out this process bail but if you want to dip your toe into this game I would suggest the Marriott Rewards Premier Credit Card as a great place to start.

Earn 100,000 Marriott points after spending $5,000 on the card in the first three months, plus earn a free night (category 1-5 properties) upon annual renewal.  There is an $85 annual fee to own this card.

Normally, this card offers somewhere between 50,000-80,000 points, so at 100,000 Marriott reward points you have what amounts to a offer great!  The free night upon card renewal is capped at a category 5 hotel, but with some planning you should be able to tweak out a room valued at more than the $85 fee. The card also gives 15 nights towards status annually which comes in handy if you travel for business or have a several pleasure trips planned. 

The link to apply for the card is here.  I don't have an affiliation with Marriott or any one at this point so by taking advantage of this offer you are NOT padding my pocket.